Pakistan is preparing to send its first astronaut into space on November 25, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has announced. The mission will take place with China’s support, marking an important step in Pakistan’s human spaceflight programme.
The announcement follows growing cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing in space research and technology. Iqbal has also revealed Pakistan’s ambition to achieve a lunar landing by 2035, highlighting the government’s focus on scientific research and technological development.
Pakistan-China Space Cooperation Advances
Two Pakistani pilots, Zeeshan Ali and Khurram Daud, were selected as candidates for China’s human spaceflight programme. Both have undergone training in Beijing, preparing for the technical and physical demands of travelling to space.
However, Chinese authorities have not publicly confirmed which candidate will undertake the mission. The selected astronaut is expected to travel aboard China’s Tiangong space station and serve as a payload specialist, conducting scientific experiments rather than piloting the spacecraft.
The mission forms part of broader cooperation between Pakistan and China, which are also working together on lunar exploration initiatives.
Moon Landing Target Set for 2035
Iqbal has stressed that space technology plays an increasingly important role in agriculture, communications, climate monitoring and national security. He said Pakistan must strengthen scientific research and encourage young people to pursue careers in emerging technological fields.
Meanwhile, the government plans to establish Pakistan’s first space museum at the University of Narowal. The initiative aims to raise awareness about space science and inspire students to explore research and innovation.
The minister has also announced plans for an advanced technology and emerging sciences centre at the university. These initiatives are intended to expand educational opportunities and support the country’s scientific capabilities.
Pakistan’s upcoming astronaut mission could help strengthen its participation in international space research. Nevertheless, achieving the longer-term lunar landing target will require sustained investment, technical expertise and continued international cooperation.
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